I'm really worried that he's lost function in the leg. It appears he has a very damaged nerve involved with whatever the initial injury was, or a possible spinal issue. You really need to have a vet examine him. If function can't be restored, the leg will have to be amputated. I know that sounds extreme, but I've seen what happens to dogs when amputation is necessary and the owner refuses the surgery. Eventually, there will be another injury to the leg because the dog can't feel it. Infection sets in leading to sepsis (blood poisoning) and the dog dies a horrible death. Dogs get along great on 3 legs, so if amputation is necessary, please don't hesitate to do it to save his life.
I would suggest seeing your vet and having radiographs taken of the limb and the spine and/or a possible referral to a vet neurosurgeon for a MRI or CT scan. Also see if there is a canine rehabilitator in your area. In conjunction with other treatments (which may include surgery) you can see great success with rehab. If treatment is sought quickly hopefully this won't result in an amputation, but as Jaybay stated dogs do very well on just three legs. I hope everything turns out fine :)
Well we took him to the vet and his suggestion was an injury that damaged or pinched the brachial nerve bundle near his shoulder/spine. He said it was typical for dogs/cats that may get a leg caught or trapped. He prescribed anti-inflamatory meds for the next two months with hopes that tissue swelling might be the cause but indicated what other posters did also that it might result in an amputation. We are praying he gets back full function in his leg at this point. One interesting development is that after about two days of meds he has been able to lift up the leg from his shoulder and though his paw is still limp he has indicated a return of sensation to it by reacting to some pressure on it. Thanks for all the help -- we'll keep ya posted.
I'm happy to hear that your chihuahua is responding to meds. I hope he makes a full recovery.
Sorry, I was at the vet's - twice - tonight with my Sr. dachshund. I'm so happy that your chihuahua is doing better. I hope he's out romping around again soon!
Thanks for all your help. Gizmo is now posted in our profile image. He's sooooo cute. Just his paw is limp now and he is starting to get feeling back in it. He is also starting to run again and holds the paw flat out at times. Praise God - we're still praying for him. Thanks again.
SO HAPPY to hear your guy is happy.
My Amy is being sore on her hind leg after a small tumble.
Very happy (happy) that your pup worked out - and calmed me when thinking about Amy and diagnosing her issue.
T.